Things To Do
in Kemi
Kemi is a city located in northern Finland, situated on the shores of the Gulf of Bothnia. It is known for its iconic SnowCastle, a massive snow and ice structure that is rebuilt each year. Kemi is also home to the stunning Kemi Church, a beautiful wooden building dating back to the late 1800s.
The city is a popular destination for travelers interested in experiencing the unique beauty of Finnish Lapland.
- "Moikka" - Hi
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvä" - You're welcome
- "Yhteystiedot" - Contact information
- "Näkemiin" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the SnowCastle, a stunning structure made entirely of snow and ice. Explore its intricate carvings and take pictures in its whimsical surroundings.
Enjoy lunch at the SnowCastle’s restaurant before heading to Kemi's Icebreaker Sampo for an unforgettable experience. Witness the power of ice breaking while savoring the breathtaking views of the frozen Gulf of Bothnia.
End the day with a cozy dinner at a local Finnish restaurant. Taste traditional dishes made from fresh ingredients as you reflect on your adventures.
Experience a guided tour of the Kemi Gemstone Gallery, where you can marvel at beautiful gemstones and learn about their origins. Don't forget to try your hand at gem hunting!
Visit the Kemi Church, a beautiful wooden construction notorious for its lovely architecture. Take a peaceful stroll in the nearby park taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
Relax at a local café and enjoy a warm drink while sampling traditional Finnish pastries. This is a perfect way to soak in the local atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with access to lakes and forests.
- Rich cultural heritage and history with several museums and historical sites.
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and winter sports.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Good educational facilities and services.
- Harsh winters with long periods of cold and limited daylight.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living for some goods and services.
- Isolated location, making travel to major urban centers less convenient.
- Potential language barrier for non-Finnish speakers.
Best Activities in Kemi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the thrill of snowmobiling through the snowy landscapes of Kemi. Guided tours are available for all skill levels.
Try your luck at ice fishing on the frozen waters of the Gulf of Bothnia. Equipment can be rented, and it's a peaceful way to enjoy nature.
Explore the magnificent Kemi SnowCastle, which is built every winter. The castle features themed rooms and is a unique photo opportunity.
Enjoy hiking trails around LumiLinna, soaking in the breathtaking views of the snowy scenery. Various trails cater to different difficulty levels.
During the summer months, take a relaxing boat tour around the beautiful archipelago near Kemi and enjoy the scenic waterways.
In the winter months, venture out into the countryside for the chance to see the stunning Northern Lights. Several local tours offer excursions specifically for aurora viewing.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kemi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kemi
Visit one of these nice places.
offers a panoramic view of the town and the Gulf of Bothnia
provides unique photo opportunities with its snow and ice sculptures
offers beautiful views of the sea and ships
Food in Kemi
Kemi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lohikeitto, a creamy salmon soup, is a must-try local dish in Kemi. The soup is usually enriched with potatoes, carrots, and dill, and can be found in many traditional Finnish restaurants like Ravintola Satama.
Must-Try!
Rössypottu is a hearty meat and vegetable stew, often made with beef or pork, and is a beloved comfort food in Kemi. Local eateries like Kukko Pub & Kitchen offer delicious renditions of this dish.
Kalakukko, a traditional Finnish fish pastry, is a delicacy in Kemi. It can be savored at local bakeries such as Kosila's Bakery & Cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kemi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Kemi Citymarket is a great place to explore local food products and ingredients. It offers a variety of Finnish delicacies, from reindeer salami to cloudberries, and is perfect for experiencing the essence of Finnish cuisine.
Visit Kemin Tori, the local market square, to discover a range of street food vendors offering traditional Finnish snacks like muikku (fried vendace) and salmon soup, providing an authentic taste of local street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kemi, as in much of Finland, personal space is highly valued. Maintain a respectful distance during conversations and avoid physical contact unless you are inviting it.
Finnish culture appreciates politeness and a degree of formality, especially in professional settings. Use titles and last names until invited to use first names, and always greet people with a friendly tone.
Being on time is regarded as a sign of respect in Kemi. Whether for social gatherings or business meetings, aim to arrive promptly as it reflects your consideration for others' time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kemi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kemi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Kemi, Finland is not a common practice. Service charges are usually included in the bill, and it is generally expected to round up the total or leave a small gratuity for exceptional service. Tipping is more common in tourist areas, but it's not obligatory.
In Kemi, various payment methods are accepted, including cash, credit cards, and mobile payments. It is common to pay with cards, and many establishments are equipped to handle card transactions. Contactless payments are also widely used. Some smaller shops may prefer cash, but the trend is moving towards digital transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kemi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Kemi for outdoor activities and enjoying the Midnight Sun. Average temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C.
Visitors can experience the beautiful fall foliage and the Northern Lights may start to appear. Average temperature ranges from 0°C to 10°C.
Ideal for experiencing the winter wonderland, snow activities, and the magical Icebreaker Sampo tours. Average temperature ranges from -15°C to -5°C.
A good time to witness the snow melting, nature awakening, and the transition to milder temperatures. Average temperature ranges from -5°C to 5°C.
Kemi at Night
Hiking in Kemi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park offering various hiking trails through dense forests and stunning landscapes, featuring the iconic Amethyst mine.
A serene natural area with well-marked trails, ideal for hiking and enjoying the tranquility of Finnish nature with lakes and woodlands.
During the summer months, the ski resort offers several hiking trails that let you explore the breathtaking Arctic environment.
Known for its dramatic landscapes and the famous 'Karhunkierros' trail, this park provides exceptional hiking experiences amidst untouched nature.
This national park features a variety of hiking routes, including panoramic views, historical sites, and diverse flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kemi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kemi by plane.
The nearest airport, located approximately 6 kilometers from Kemi, offers domestic flights and some seasonal international services.
Located about 106 kilometers from Kemi, Oulu Airport is the biggest airport in Northern Finland, serving both domestic and international flights.
Approximately 123 kilometers from Kemi, Rovaniemi Airport offers a mix of domestic and international flights, especially during the tourism season.
This airport is the closest major airport to Kemi, primarily catering to domestic flights but also offering some international connections.
While further away at about 900 kilometers, Helsinki-Vantaa is Finland's main international airport, providing numerous global connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kemi, comprising most of the local population.
A minority group in Finland who speak Swedish as their first language.
Indigenous people of Finland, with a cultural presence and connection to the northern regions.
A diverse group comprising individuals from various countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Kemi.
A small ethnic group with a distinct culture and history in Finland.
The Soul of Kemi
Discover the essence of Kemi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Kemi, with local teams and a strong community following.
Football has a significant presence in Kemi, with several clubs and youth programs encouraging participation.
Due to its winter climate, cross-country skiing is a favored sport, attracting both locals and tourists to the area's trails.
Floorball is a widely played indoor sport in Kemi, with many clubs and leagues catering to different age groups.
Fishing is not only a popular recreational activity in Kemi due to its rivers and lakes, but it is also a vital part of local culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kemi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Kemi provide vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, ranging from hearty salads to plant-based burgers. Places like Ravintola Wanha Woimala and Cafe Strampen are known for their accommodating menus.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can also find suitable options in Kemi, as many eateries offer gluten-free variants of traditional Finnish dishes. It's advisable to inquire with the staff about gluten-free alternatives when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kemi with these cultural adventures.
